Finding a good roommate may look like a big challenge. Nevertheless, how can you know whether you will get along well with someone after meeting them once? Yet, there are things you can do to increase your chances of locating a roommate that you will prefer to share a Dakota County rental house. While there are important traits that you can encounter for any potential roommate, the most vital aspect is whether you will get along. To find that person, try using some of the strategies below.
Advertise Selectively
Where and how much you advertise should reflect the kind of roommate that you want. People who share things in common tend to get along better, including a particular life stage or situation. If you are a college student or a young professional, you may find that interacting with another person going to school or starting a career is a perfect fit. On the other side, a mid-career professional or retiree may get along much better with someone in a similar life stage. Place your advertising on venues that will reach the people you’d like to have as roommates.
Ask Good Questions
Before you accept any particular person, screen anyone who responds to your ad in that initial phone call. This will save you a lot of time and effort. Describe your rental situation and your ideal tenant, and introduce yourself. Then ask questions. It is a great idea to have a list of questions prepared. Ask about the caller’s income source, major expenses, whether they smoke or own pets, what their work schedule is like, and if they are dating anyone. That last question may appear to be personal, but you will want to know whether or not a significant other might be spending the night at your place. Once you’re done gathering information, be sure to give them a chance to ask questions of their own.
Check All References
If you’ve made it past the screening phone call, it’s time to gather information about your potential roommate’s past rental experience – together with references. Employers, former landlords, and friends can all give you a bigger picture of who the applicant is and how they relate to others. Be sure to contact each reference and ask important questions about the applicant. It’s also vital to have a background check completed for all prospective roommates. You don’t want to be surprised by your roommate’s criminal record after they’ve moved in.
Don’t Rent to Friends and Family.
It may seem like a smart idea to offer your house to a friend or family member, but living with someone you already know always includes a downside. While other individuals can make it work, there are several potential complications with signing a friend or family member on as a roommate. You may discover things about the person you don’t like, which could generate resentment and even destroy your relationship. It’s also much harder to enforce a lease agreement with someone who matters to you, specifically if subtle reminders to wash their dishes or clean up their messes aren’t working. Also, if a friend or a family member falls behind on their rent, you’ll be in a very complicated spot. Whether you try them to pay or you ask them to leave, the chances are strong that your relationship wouldn’t be the same anymore – even if they seem to be understanding at this moment.
Although it requires some effort, it is worth it when you find a well-mannered roommate. After all, you’ll spend a lot of time sharing in the same house, so it is important to choose someone that will make doing so as pleasant as possible.
Whether you are a tenant or owner, Real Property Management Viking takes the stress out of the roommate hunt. Our Dakota County property managers incorporate a rigorous screening process to ensure quality tenants. For more information, contact us online or call us at 612-442-8850.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
